About this Event
Join us for a lunch-hour organic discussion by deep readers. Come to one, a few, or all of them. Member-selected titles focus mainly on literary fiction with a sprinkling of non-fiction, poetry, and graphic novels. The eclectic list includes Maine authors, issues of contemporary life, prize winners, and connections to MH events.
Curious about the group but not a Mechanics' Hall member? You're invited to stop by! If you like what you hear, consider becoming a member.
2026 Discussions:
- November 3 - The One in a Million Boy by Monica Wood, 2016
- December 1 - In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick, 2000
- January 5 - Moby Dick (graphic novel) by Chabouté, 2017
+ Poems by Herman Melville as collected by The Poetry Foundation online
- February 2 - Adrift: 76 Days Lost at Sea by Steven Callahan, 1986
- March 2 - Country People by Daniel Mason, 2026
- April 6 - There Is No Place for Us: Working and Homeless in America by Brian Goldstone, 2025
- May 4 - Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout, 2008
PARKING & TRANSPORTATION
The Greater Portland Metro’s Congress & Casco Street Stop is directly in front of our building, served by routes 1, 7, 8, and 9B.
Street Parking: Available on Congress, Casco, Cumberland, Free Street, and nearby streets. Pay by meter or the Passport Parking App. Free after 6 PM, on Sundays, and between Parris and Alder Street. Some blocks may vary — look for posted signs.
Garages: The Arts District Garage (41 Brown St) has 250+ spaces, is open 24/7, and accepts credit card only, with entrances on Brown, Cumberland, and Casco. The Elm Street Garage (21 Elm St) is conveniently near the Portland Library. The Spring Street Garage is three blocks away at 45 Spring St.
ACCESSIBILITY
To enter our building, patrons will need to navigate a single step or use a modular ramp. Please note that the wheelchair ramp has a steep incline.
A wheelchair-accessible elevator is available. The elevator is 60" deep, 48" wide, with a 32" door opening. There are four wheelchair-accessible bathrooms on the third-floor level, adjacent to the Ballroom.
If you have a wheelchair or need accessibility accommodations/questions, please contact us at [email protected] or 207-773-8396.
Event venue & nearby stays
Mechanics' Hall, 519 Congress Street, Portland, United States
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